A finely modelled Amlash spouted pottery vessel, featuring a hemispherical body which curves from a slightly inverted rim to a flattened base with two short, conical feet exposed at the front, reminiscent of a standing bird. A wide, concave tongue-shaped spout extends from the rim in the direction of the feet. A single vertical handle has been applied to the rear of the vessel. Earthly encrustations and scratches to the surface. The handle has been repaired with cracks and glue residue visible to the surface. The term ‘Amlash Culture’, has generally been used to designate material cultures excavated at Gilan, and refers to a group of Iron Age pottery and metal executions with a strong visual character. Most of the Amlash pottery vessels are believed to have been stylistically and typologically inspired by bronze wares of the same period. Among the greatly varied zoomorphic repertories that were prevalent during the 1st millennium BC, representations of birds were the most favoured designs, frequently used to adorn pottery vessels. The presence of zoomorphic legs, as seen on this fine piece, are typical of Amlash culture. Vessels as this object were probably used as ritual objects for special occasions. Measurements: L 21.4cm x W 13cm x H 9.3cm Provenance: Ex. specialist Near Eastern pottery collection, London, 1990s.